Do spiders attack people?

Do spiders attack people?

No, spiders never actively attack people. Spiders have no interest in humans most of the time, and will usually ignore us or consider us part of the landscape (if they notice we’re there at all). Sometimes when we get too close or disturb them, they treat us like they would treat any predator. Many spiders have threat displays intended to scare off predators, such as rearing up or lunging. Biting in self-defence is another strategy that spiders can use when they are afraid for their lives. However, most spiders will simply run away.

The Sydney Funnelweb (Atrax robustus) has a well publicised defensive stance, however, the spider will hold its ground and not chase or attack people. If given the opportunity it will run for its life to seek shelter. Bites are the result of people accidentally touching the spider, not the spider seeking us out.